Our Story
Meet the owners of The Clairfield Hotel
Fate and a delicious pinot noir brought Joe and Jill Adendorff together one winter’s evening at Roth’s Wine Bar + Cellar in Mudgee, New South Wales.
Jill had moved to town during the week to begin a new role as the district vet, and Joe was also adjusting to country life having recently traded careers as a successful Sydney-based accountant to buy and run the local Motor Inn.
A brief introduction at the bar and by the end of the evening, they both knew this quaint little country town had changed the course of their lives forever.
What do you love about Mudgee?
Meandering through a long lunch among the vines with a group of local winemakers. Sharing rustic wholesome produce under a sunny sky, wine dogs lazing nearby, freshly picked flowers from the garden on the table. There would be double the amount of wine bottles to people dining, some the latest vintage just bottled, as well as some extraordinary drops from across the globe. Each sip, we’d discuss and compare leaving a case of half consumed bottles in our wake, our bellies and hearts full with sharing wonderful food, conversation and company.
The sense of community that overflows with Mudgee is like no other region we have been to. From the winemaker bottling your wine to the chocolatier crafting delicious treats, the locals are passionate about their home and they can’t wait to share it with you.
We also love the distinct seasonality of Mudgee. From the crunch of the frost underfoot on a cold winter's mornings to the kids playing in the falling autumn leaves in Lawson park - each season brings new focus, new flavours and new experiences.
How will The Clairfield embody the above?
We’ve created The Clairfield for locals as much as we have for guests. Common spaces have been designed with warmth and community at heart.
All of the facilities are curated for your rest and enjoyment. A heated pool with daybeds, steam room and ample cosy seating areas allow you to relax and unwind. There will also be a gym if you want to rewind.
“We hope that spaces like our winemakers table will help guests’ create memories similar to those that enchanted us in the first place.”
We wanted the interiors to be a celebration of the town - an extension of nature if you will. The large gums dotted around Mudgee were the inspiration for the palate. Expect earthy tones with natural textures like timber and stone. There will be numerous examples of artwork and creations made by local artisans. We hope that spaces like our winemakers table will help guests’ create memories similar to those that enchanted us in the first place.
Artist illustration of the signature restaurant
What can guests expect from a stay at The Clairfield?
Everyone will be welcomed by the same open arms that welcomed us into the community when we first arrived. You can expect to be looked after and spoiled by Peter and his team from the moment you arrive to when you say goodbye.
The kitchen team will curate a delight of seasonal, regional produce that will excite the senses. We want exceptional produce to speak for itself.
Describe your favourite hotel experience and what made it so special?
We love hotels that take you away from the minutiae of day life.
For a coastal weekend it’s hard to go past any hotel that’s close to a beach and good coffee!
For a city fix we really love Ace Hotel in Surry Hills or Jamala Wildlife Lodge in Canberra. Why Ace? We think that they nailed the interiors, vibe and food offering.
Why Jamala? It is such an incredibly immersive wildlife experience in the middle of Canberra. (Joe) I’m South African and it takes me right back to memories of being on a safari Jeep. The food is also outstanding - multiple courses of food with personality and matched wine. It’s hard not to enjoy yourself!
Artist illustration of the hotel lobby
And last but certainly not least, when is The Clairfield due to open?
At this stage, pending construction or weather delays, we hope to open in early 2024.
We suggest signing up to our subscriber list below to follow the hotel and restaurant’s progress, meet the design and hotel operations team, as well as receive special opening offers.